College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

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North magnetic pole

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College Physics III – Thermodynamics, Electricity, and Magnetism

Definition

The North Magnetic Pole is one of the two points on the Earth's surface where the planet's magnetic field points vertically downwards. It is distinct from the geographic North Pole and can shift due to changes in the Earth's magnetic field.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The North Magnetic Pole is not fixed and has been observed to move over time, currently drifting northwestward.
  2. The location of the North Magnetic Pole is crucial for navigation systems, including compasses which align with it rather than the geographic pole.
  3. Earth's magnetic field, including the North Magnetic Pole, is generated by movements within its molten outer core composed mainly of iron and nickel.
  4. Magnetic declination refers to the angle between geographic north and magnetic north at a particular location.
  5. The movement of the North Magnetic Pole can affect auroras, as these phenomena occur near both magnetic poles due to solar wind interactions.

Review Questions

  • What causes the movement of the North Magnetic Pole?
  • How does the location of the North Magnetic Pole affect navigation?
  • What is magnetic declination and why is it important?

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